Howl's Moving Castle

by Diana Wynne Jones
Howl's Moving Castle cover
Good Books rating 4.31
Fantasy, Young Adult (YA)
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  • ID: 1633
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9780062244512
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published: 2012-09-25
  • Reviews: 4

Sophie Hatter, the eldest of three daughters, finds her life turned upside down when she is cursed by the Witch of the Waste and transformed into an old lady. Her only hope lies in the enigmatic Wizard Howl and his ever-moving castle. Along the way, Sophie discovers that nothing is quite as it seems, and that her own strength and courage may be the key to breaking the spell. /n/n Diana Wynne Jones' classic fantasy novel is a delightful blend of humor, adventure, and magical intrigue. With a richly imagined world and unforgettable characters, Howl's Moving Castle is a timeless tale that has captivated readers for generations. The book is part of the World of Howl series and has been adapted into an Academy Award-nominated animated film.

Reviews
Catherine Rose Gunther · Catherine Rose Gunther · 2024-11-06
charming 4.50

The book is deeply charming and easy to read, with jokes and references that add to its appeal. It's a delightful story that would have been perfect for a child.

Catherine Rose Gunther finds the book to be deeply charming and easy to read, with a mix of humor and whimsy that makes it a delightful experience. She particularly enjoys the jokes and references scattered throughout the story, which add layers of enjoyment. Gunther wishes she had discovered this book as a child, as it feels like a perfect fit for younger readers. The story's charm and simplicity make it a standout, and she appreciates the way it blends fantasy with real-world elements.

Quick quotes

    Overall the book is deeply charming, easy to read and something I wish I had picked up as a child.

    There are jokes and references in it that I really enjoyed.

    It's a delightful story that would have been perfect for a child.

Alan K. Dell's Blog · Alan K. Dell · 2024-07-26
whimsical 4.50

Diana Wynne Jones' prose is elegant and fun, reminiscent of Ursula K. Le Guin's work but more youthful. The book's charm lies in its whimsical storytelling and memorable characters.

Alan K. Dell's review highlights the elegance and fun of Diana Wynne Jones' prose, comparing it favorably to Ursula K. Le Guin's work but noting its more youthful appeal. The book's charm is found in its whimsical storytelling and the memorable characters that bring the story to life. He praises the way the author blends fantasy, magic, and adventure with a sense of fun that makes the story engaging and enjoyable. The characters are particularly noted for their depth and the way they drive the narrative forward, making the book a delightful read for both young and adult readers.

Quick quotes

    Diana Wynne Jones' prose is elegant but fun.

    It reminded me somewhat of Ursula K. Le Guin's prose, but much more geared towards the younger reader.

    The book's charm lies in its whimsical storytelling and the memorable characters that bring the story to life.

Potpourri2015 · 2024-03-21
fun 4.00

The story is full of fun and adventure, with characters that are as entertaining as the plot itself. It blends fantasy, magic, and romance in a way that feels lighthearted and enjoyable.

Potpourri2015 highlights that Howl's Moving Castle is a story that thrives on fun and adventure. The characters are a major part of its appeal, each bringing their unique charm to the narrative. The blend of fantasy, magic, and romance creates a lighthearted and enjoyable atmosphere, making it a story that feels both exciting and comforting. The reviewer emphasizes that the book is not just about the plot twists but also about the journey of the characters, particularly Sophie, who grows and evolves throughout the story. The whimsical and magical elements are well-balanced, making it a delightful read for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and heartwarming moments.

Quick quotes

    While this is a story of fantasy, magic, adventure and even romance, most of all it is a story full of fun—be it in the characters themselves.

    It blends fantasy, magic, and romance in a way that feels lighthearted and enjoyable.

    The story is not just about the plot twists but also about the journey of the characters.

Jeroen's Thoughts · Jeroen · 2023-03-02
whimsical 4.25

The book is a fairy tale novel for younger readers, but it has a relaxing and whimsical quality that appeals to all ages. It's a story where not much happens, but the charm lies in its simplicity.

Jeroen describes the book as a fairy tale novel that, while targeted at younger readers, has a relaxing and whimsical quality that can be enjoyed by all ages. He notes that the story is not particularly eventful, but its charm lies in its simplicity and the way it unfolds. The book's whimsical nature makes it a pleasant read, and Jeroen appreciates the gentle pacing and the way it creates a soothing atmosphere. The lack of intense action is not a drawback but rather a part of its appeal.

Quick quotes

    Howl's Moving Castle is a fairy tale novel for younger readers from the 1980s, but most people are more familiar with Miyazaki's adaptation.

    It's a relaxing, whimsical story in which not much happens.

    The charm lies in its simplicity and the way it unfolds.

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